As parents scramble to get their children ready for school this year, one item should not be left off their to-do lists: getting their kids vaccinated against dangerous diseases that could harm or even kill them.

That's a good idea all the time, but it's especially true now.

Texas is on track to record the highest number of whooping cough (pertussis) cases in 50 years if outbreaks of the disease continue at the current rate. Part of the reason could be more parents seeking treatment for their kids because of ad campaigns about the disease. But another factor could be a drop in vaccinations of vulnerable children.

Measles is also surging, with state officials reporting about a dozen cases this year compared to none in 2012.

Both of those diseases and others can be prevented with vaccinations - which, contrary to Internet rumors, do not cause autism or mental retardation. Protect your kids now.